Sarasota Memorial Hospital (North Port Medical Plaza)

FleischmanGarcia was retained by Sarasota Memorial Hospital to design The North Port Emergency Room and Health Care Center.

The two-story, 52,600-plus sq. ft. building is dedicated to bringing superior medical care at all levels to the city of Sarasota. The 26,500 sq. ft. ground floor is completely owned by Sarasota Memorial Hospital and includes a freestanding Emergency Room staffed by board-certified emergency physicians.

Welcoming patients with warm wood tones and cool seaside hues that oppose the high-tech medical equipment helps diffuse patients' stress upon entering the facility. Nautical elements, from the decorative wood pilings to trunk tables and porthole mirrors, reflect the community's Gulf Coast living style, while the open reception desk allows an experienced staff to triage patients and families.

While maintaining the project budget and the fact that this is a county owned and operated healthcare facility, the design treatments were kept simple and achieved primarily with just the use of well-balanced paint colors. The high tech, state-of-the-art equipment throughout the treatment areas and corridor are buffered by soothing indirect lighting and a continuation of the interior design theme.

There are 21 treatment rooms, including specialized rooms for obstetrics, trauma and psychiatric care. Physicians have 24/7 access to all medical records and test results, speeding up communication between the North Port facility and the rest of the Sarasota Memorial Health Care System.

Imaging and laboratory tests are handled on site as well, including comprehensive diagnostic services such as general x-rays, ultrasounds, CIs and MRIs, mammographies and bone density scans. Rehabilitation services are available for physical and occupational therapy. The facility also offers home health and private-duty nursing care.